What's it like living in the middle of paradise - an island retreat where things move slower, the temperatures are warmer (always 4 degrees more than Auckland) and life is just simpler. Follow our diary for the low down on life in the middle of paradise...

As the sign says when you arrive on Waiheke 'Slow down, you're here'. There is definitely a chilled-out, relaxed vibe to the island. Shorts and jandals are the standard dress-code, welcome even at our 5-star restaurants.

But once you're fully de-stressed and relaxed, and start looking for things to do, the island certainly has some great options. Here is Christina and Kelly's Top 10 to Waiheke Island.

Welcome to the Waiheke Island Motel

Waiheke Island Motel (formerly Midway Motel) is conveniently located at Ostend, right in the centre of the populated western end of Waiheke Island. We are 10 minutes drive from Matiatia, where the passenger ferry docks, the shopping village of Oneroa, the Sealink vehicle ferry is a 5 minute drive, and the motel on the main bus route.

The motel is within an easy 10 minute drive of 10 of the island's most beautiful beaches, including busy Oneroa beach, pretty Palm Beach, and the long white beach at Onetangi. Many vineyards, restaurants, and local activities are also a short drive (or bus trip) away.

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at this kiwiana motel. Comfy beds, great size rooms, friendly atmosphere and central to everywhere on the island. The family hosts were amazing and create a real kiwi atmosphere with BBQ, spa, pool and their hospitality was superb. We even got to use the motels beetle convertible to check out the island. Will definitely be back.

what a great experience..the host was fantastic and made sure we had a wonderful anniversary weekend...he went out of his way which made us feel special..home away from home!!! nice 2 bedroom unit spacious comfy beds clean and tidy...awesome pool and spa close to rooms..best of all was the little convertible yay it really did put a smile on our faces..promised by our host...sad to leave can't wait to go back!!! thank you so much for everything!

Friendly staff, they had no problem talking to us about the different places to visit and were helpful when we needed help. The room was clean and surprisingly spacious (had more beds than we expected) and the view was fantastic from the lounge within the room. Would definitely recommend this place if you're staying on Waiheke Island.

I will never forget the exceptional service and kindness we received, from the moment we stepped on to the property. Thank you so much for going out of your way to make sure we had a great time, when we didn't know anything about the island whatsoever. Also, our little Santa bag we got greeted with at our door on Christmas morning. Again, thank you so much, Cristina and Kelly!!! I'd give this place a bajillion stars if I could!!! Cheers to Waiheke Island Motel!!!!

Friendly staff who were very helpful. Had extensive knowledge of the local area and were happy to spend time with us chatting about the island. Clean room and a comfortable bed. Bedding was clean and the motel was a quiet place to take in the serenity of Waiheke.

My Partner and I went to Waiheke Island for a day trip. Enjoyed our day so much that we decided to stay a night. We saw a little yellow VW convertible advertising the motel and decided to try it out. Stayed in room 10. So clean, friendly staff. Countdown supermarket, RSA, close by. Lovely valley and native bush and birds...

WAIHEKE ISLAND MOTEL

The Midway Motel has been on Waiheke Island for over 40 years and is “midway” between Matiatia and Onetangi. It is almost smack bang in the middle of the island making it very easy to use as your base, with ease, convenience and access to all the island has to offer. It’s close to the bus stop and shopping center. Christina and Kelly bought the motel business in October 2016, and rebranded as the ‘Waiheke Island Motel’.